SR 520 Bridge Program: I-5 to Medina Project Permitting Update

As part of the environmental compliance process for the I-5 to Medina project, WSDOT applied for numerous federal, state, and local permits. As of March 23, 2012, all required permits had been issued, allowing WSDOT to proceed with replacement of the vulnerable SR 520 floating bridge and development of natural resource mitigation sites.

Following several years of coordination, in late March 2012, WSDOT received the final permit necessary to begin construction on the SR 520 floating bridge. Local, state, and federal agencies issued the following permits and authorizations:

Were the permit applications based off of the selected alternative design?

Yes, the permit applications were based on the design of the selected alternative, which WSDOT evaluated in the final environmental impact statement as the preferred alternative. This alternative was selected in the record of decision, which was issued by the Federal Highway Administration in August 2011.

How have permitting agencies been involved in the project?

WSDOT has worked closely with local, state and federal agencies throughout the planning and design process on issues such wetland and aquatic mitigation, in-water construction, stormwater, and fish passage.

Agency staff provided valuable input and feedback during the design process. Their feedback resulted in fewer impacts to natural resources, and helped the project team identify appropriate mitigation for impacts that could not be avoided or minimized.